Michael McCormack (Riverina, National Party, Shadow Minister for International Development and the Pacific) Share this | Hansard source

I hear 'hear, hear' from the member for Braddon, who knows Wagga Wagga well having been at Kapooka. If ever there is a centre that needs it, it is Wagga Wagga. It's the only inland regional centre with all three arms of the Defence Force. Since 1939 we've had a Royal Australian Air Force presence. Since 1942 we've been the home of the soldier, that long line of khaki stretching back to World War II. And since 1993 we've had a Navy presence in our town. They're based with the Air Force at Forest Hill. It's an important Navy institution. It has, generally, between 70 and 80 personnel.

Even though we're a long way from the nearest drop of seawater, as I often say, the Navy plays an integral part in Wagga Wagga, and may that long continue. I know the infrastructure spend that I made sure was going to go to Wagga to upgrade and update those bases, particularly the Forest Hill base, was going to secure those services forever, hopefully. They were needed. Some of the buildings were antiquated, particularly at the RAAF base. They're replacing 1950s buildings with state-of-the-art world-class facilities—as they should.

I would urge and encourage people who have a story to tell to the veteran suicide public hearings to do so. There is still time, plenty of time—indeed, public submissions are open until October next year. I know this is going to make such a difference potentially in the future care and support that future governments will provide to our veterans. Already there is plenty of help and support and services available, and I would encourage and implore those people who have worn the uniform and those people who are considering an Army, Air Force or Navy career to avail themselves and find out more about what services are available post their careers.

I would just finish on this note. Just because some have experienced—many have experienced—hardship and heartache in their service, please, if you are considering a career in the armed forces, please pursue that. There is no finer work that you can do for your nation than to serve in our military. Our military needs you; our military supports you and there is care and support for you when you finish your career.

See this speech in context